City set for rousing comeback against English foes?

Manchester City will target a rousing comeback against Liverpool when they play host for the second leg of a UEFA Champions League semifinal, set for the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday, 10 April 2018, kick-off at 20h45 CAT.

City entered last week’s first leg at Anfield as the favourites for the tie overall, but the Reds put up an incredible attacking display in the first half to claim a 3-0 victory. Mohamed Salah, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Sadio Mane all scored within the first 31 minutes to give Liverpool an almost overwhelming advantage.

That leaves Pep Guardiola’s side looking for a major turnaround, though the fact that they beat Liverpool 5-0 at home earlier in the season suggests that they are capable of a miraculous recovery. In addition, Liverpool have an injury cloud hanging over leading scorer Mohamed Salah, and influential midfield Jordan Henderson is suspended.

Jurgen Klopp will want a similarly solid defensive showing as his side gave in the first leg, particularly in the second half when the excellent Virgil Van Dijk orchestrated the backline and prevented City from having a single effort on target despite their possession dominance.

Neither side managed a win in domestic duties over the weekend: Liverpool were held 0-0 by Merseyside rivals Everton, while City missed out on the chance to clinch the Premier League title as they were beaten 3-2 at home by Manchester United.

In head-to-head stats, Liverpool and City have met in 160 matches across all competitions (though this will be just their second meeting in European club football). The Reds have claimed 76 wins compared to 42 for the Citizens, while 42 games have been drawn.